ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF SHIP SYSTEMS AND MARINE ENGINEERING

JOB DESCRIPTION

The aim of the position is to strengthen the Green Maritime Technology Research Group and ensure its sustainability in the fields of integrated ship systems and autonomous and unmanned marine technology.

Main responsibilities:

• Development and sustainability of the research group:

- Design and architecture of integrated ship systems (electrical, mechanical, power, control systems, green technology) and their integration into structural systems, balancing their performance, safety, and security at sea or in ports;

- Development of autonomous and semi-autonomous vessels and marine infrastructure, considering regulatory frameworks and standards.

• Collaboration with other research groups at the Estonian Maritime Academy and TalTech, as well as with other institutions, addressing the ship as part of a larger socio-economic system, digitalization in the maritime sector, and maritime cybersecurity.

• Participation in the development of regulatory frameworks for autonomous and unmanned vessels at national and international levels, and involvement in standardization processes.

• Initiating high-level research and development projects with leading partners in Estonia and Europe through competitive research grant applications, especially as a coordinator.

• Involving students (BSc, MSc, PhD) in research and development projects and supervising bachelor's, master's, and doctoral theses.

• Publishing high-quality scientific articles in top-tier journals with high impact.

• Teaching students in the field of marine technology and participating in the development of study programs at all levels of higher education.

Possible subjects to teach:

• In the Ship Mechanics curriculum at the applied higher education level: VLL1590 Use of Future Fuels in Transport and Shipping, VLM1210 Ship Electrical Propulsion Systems, VLM1030 Ship Computer Networks and Data Processing Systems;

• In the Maritime and Maritime Digitalization master's programs: VME0260 Ship Seakeeping and Ship Handling Optimization;

• In the doctoral program in the main field of maritime studies: VLD9020 Shipping Operations.

The position of Assistant Professor is fixed-term, up to eight years from the start date. The workload is 1.0 and the position is to be filled as soon as possible, but preferably no later than 01.01.2027. The position offers a flexible work schedule and access to relevant and modern research infrastructure.

Additional information: Loreida Timberg, email loreida.timberg@taltech.ee

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

The qualification for Assistant Professor must comply with the requirements for the position of Assistant Professor at TalTech, based on the Academic Career Management Regulation, the threshold requirements for the position, and the relevant levels, including the following requirements:

• Doctoral degree in a research field related to the area of activity, with no more than 10 years since the defense of the doctoral degree* from the expected start date of the position;

• Previous international work experience in the research field;

• Experience in research and development activities as an applicant and executor of research topics, with preference given to experience as a PI and responsible executor;

• Pedagogical experience, including supervision, is desirable;

• The level and citation of scientific publications should be comparable to professors in the same field at the university's reference universities.

* If the candidate has been on parental leave, maternity or paternity leave, or in military or alternative service after obtaining the doctoral degree, the time limit for becoming an Assistant Professor is extended by the corresponding period.

LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY

Advanced level of English is required; basic knowledge of Estonian is useful for teaching and necessary in the long term.

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR APPLICATION

To apply, please submit the following documents (in English) via the application link by 31.05.2026 (application deadline):

• Motivation letter;

• Copies of documents certifying education relevant to the position;

• CV with a list of publications;

• Academic portfolio, including a motivated self-assessment of compliance with the requirements for the position of Assistant Professor as set out in Annex 3 "Academic Evaluation Matrix" of the Academic Career Management Regulation (to be submitted only by university employees) or a free-form assessment of previous academic activities and competencies required for the position (to be submitted only by external candidates);

• Vision and action plan for the future position (up to 1500 words);

• Other relevant documents at the candidate's discretion.

For more information about the required documents and the recruitment process, please contact konkurss@taltech.ee.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Estonian Maritime Academy is the only competence center in Estonia providing higher and master's level education in maritime studies, as well as conducting professional research, development, and continuing education. As a structural unit of Tallinn University of Technology, we have created opportunities and value the creation of synergies with other scientific fields and cooperation with companies in the maritime sector.

Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) is the flagship of engineering and IT science and education in Estonia, offering higher education at all levels in engineering and technical sciences, information technology, economics, natural sciences, and maritime studies. TalTech's mission is to be a promoter of science, technology, and innovation, and the leading provider of engineering and economic education in Estonia.

WHY PREFER WORKING AT TALTECH

TalTech's green campus in Mustamäe is compact and includes the Tallinn Science Park Tehnopol. We value a flat hierarchy, academic freedom, and flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance. The university offers personalized training and development opportunities, employee recognition, sports facilities at the TalTech Sports Hall, and staff events.